Klitschko retains world titles

The Ukrainian champion enjoyed an emphatic victory in his 24th world title fight having put Povetkin on the canvas five times, three times in the seventh round alone.

Wladimir Klitschko (R) punches Alexander Povetkin on Saturday

This was Klitschko’s 61st victory in his 64th professional bout, in front of a 14,000-strong crowd, having earned his first world title back in 2006. “That was a tough bit of work, he’s a real fighter,” said Klitschko.

“I kept landing the punches, but he stayed in there. “I believe it was a deserved win, but I think I can improve still.” With both fighters having come into the fight with a World Boxing Association heavyweight belt, ‘super’ champion Klitschko made it clear who is the best in the world.

“Things didn’t quite go as well as I wanted, but I never give up,” said Povetkin. “Of course, he was the better fighter, he’s the best in the world, that’s clear.”

After a bright start, Povetkin hit the canvas in the second round after a sharp left hook from Klitschko.